Mommy D pays last respects to boyfriend's late mom in Iloilo

A saddened Dionisia Pacquiao went to Iloilo province on Friday to pay her last respects to her boyfriend's mother, who died earlier this week.

 

The mother of world boxing champion and Saranggani Representative Manny Pacquiao arrived shortly past noon at the neighborhood of the Yamson family at Barangay Botongon in Estancia town, GMA Iloilo's Christian Jagorin reported.

 

Dionisia Pacquiao, fondly called Mommy D, received a welcome from residents but went straight to the house of her 40-year-old boyfriend Michael Yamson, to view the remains of his mother Melinda.

 

She approached the coffin of Melinda and offered prayers.

 

Dionisia Pacquiao said she was saddened as she did not have the chance to meet Melinda Yamson in person. She said they had previously talked on the phone.

 

She said she called Melinda "Nanay," while Melinda called her "Inday."

 

Dionisia Pacquiao said that during their conversations, Melinda Yamson had indicated she wanted to take a vacation in General Santos City. The Pacquiaos are based in the Mindanao city.

 

She said she was thankful that the Yamson family had accepted her as Michael's girlfriend, despite their 20-year age gap.

 

Dionisia Pacquiao is expected to stay in Estancia until September 12, when Mrs. Yamson is to be buried.

 

Earlier Friday, GMA Iloilo reported Melinda Yamson died due to complications from diabetes.

 

Police secured the barangay in anticipation of Dionisia Pacquiao's arrival. —Joel Locsin/NB, GMA News